Uber Introduces Brand New Feature In The US, To Allow Drivers To Set Destinations For Picking Commuters

In a move that underlines Uber’s drive to ensure that its drivers make money every time they turn the key in the ignition, A new Uber feature now allows its drivers to set a destination and pick up riders headed in their direction.

The feature is very likely to prove a big hit with drivers, many of whom would pick and drop a passenger without absolutely any guarantee of getting one on the return journey. However, with what Uber has cooked up now, drivers can set their destinations and allow Uber to match them with riders who need a cab along their way.

Also, considering the fact that quite a large portion of Uber drivers work part-time, the feature will allow them to make some quick bucks even when they are on their own journeys — if they want, of course — say from home to college, or while taking a trip to the supermarket.

Starting this week in the Bay Area, drivers will be able to set their destination twice a day when they want to be matched only with riders traveling in a similar direction. Whether it’s commuting to the areas where rides are needed most, driving back home at the end of the day, or running errands around town, drivers can set their destination to earn fares that are along their route.

Like the post said, very useful when in a whole bunch of situations such as while driving back home at the end of the day. Uber has also offered clear guidelines about how drivers can start using the feature.

Drivers can set a destination in 3 quick steps:

Tap the clipboard icon in the top corner of the app

Select a saved location or search for a new address

Start driving toward the destination—Uber will automatically filter requests for trips along the way

For now, destinations can be set only two times a day, with the feature being initially available only in Bay Area in the US. However, looking at how rapid Uber’s timelines are when it comes to rolling out features across globe, you can expect the same to come to India in a few months.

Uber is probably hoping to use the feature to gain an edge in markets such as China and India, where it is fighting a hard battle with domestic players such as Didi Chuxing and Ola respectively.